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We are fortunate enough to live in a time where we have access to many different options when it comes to transportation. Long gone are the days where relying on taxi cabs and public transportation were the norm for getting from point a to point b if you didn’t own a vehicle. Now, with the availability of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft you can simply open an app and be on your way to your destination in no time.

While these services seem like a no-brainer when you’re in need of a ride, according to a new study, many ridesharing services have actually been linked to higher traffic fatalities. The findings from the University of Chicago and Rice University show ride-share apps are associated with a two to three percent increase in the number of fatalities for both vehicle occupants as well as pedestrians. For instance, in 2010, the number of traffic fatalities had reached its lowest since 1949 with 32,885 deaths. Unfortunately, since then those numbers have only continued to rise.

The research conducted by both universities compares publicly available national traffic safety data to dates Uber and Lyft began operating in each analyzed city. It then details the accident rate per vehicle mile traveled within each city. Researchers noted in particular they reviewed neither costs benefits that occur when a ride-sharing service is operating within a city nor the cost for non-fatal accidents, as the data was not yet available.

The study noted additional benefits ” include improved mobility for the disabled and for minorities, flexible job opportunities that are especially valuable to those otherwise at high risk of unemployment, and customer convenience and resulting consumer surplus.”

In response to the study, Uber stated it reviewed the findings but found them to be flawed. A spokesperson for the company asserted that, “Uber has contributed to safety in many ways and we take our responsibility to help keep people safe seriously. That’s why we’ve rolled out features to reduce the risk of drowsy driving and notify drivers of their speed on the road and will continue to do more.”

Lubbock Auto Accidents

Car accident claims are the result of a negligent act by a person while in operation of an automobile that harmed another in some way. The National Center for Health Statistics reports around three million people suffer personal injuries as a result of automobile accidents every year. Of those three million victims, around 41,000 will die from the injuries they received. To put it another way: If you are in a room with 100 people, there is a very good statistical likelihood one of you will be injured in a car accident within the course of a year.

When a car accident occurs, our award-winning auto accident attorneys can fight for you, the victim, holding the negligent party accountable for their actions. We have more than 25 years of experience offering car accident victims in Lubbock and other West Texas communities the legal advocacy they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our experienced Lubbock auto accident lawyers. With us, you will receive the integrity, advocacy, and results you deserve.